More Than Words - Encouragement Café - Jan. 22, 2015

Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.

1 John 3:18 NASB

Entrée:

“Love you! Beat ya!” my 5 year old son said to me again. Initially these four words were part of a fun little game we played. At random times through the day, one of us would say this to the other and then we’d laugh and carry on. In time, Jed figured out these words had power and he began trying to use them when he was in trouble and facing discipline.

It was then we had to have a discussion. I told Jed, “You can’t just tell someone you love them. You have to show them too. Saying ‘I love you’ is important, but we must not forget love is something we do.” For a five year old, that means giving them a hug, helping them and listening to them.

As I spoke with my son, God spoke to his daughter. Saying “Love you” was becoming pretty easy for my little guy and sometimes it can be easy for me to tell God the same thing. Friend, would you agree? I have to believe God appreciates hearing those words, but I trust He loves seeing them put to action.

So today, how can you live them out? Perhaps we can follow in my boy’s footsteps… hug one of God’s children, help His people and listen to His Word.

Jed still enjoys playing our “Love you! Beat ya!” game, but it no longer ends with a laugh. Instead he’s added one more line - “HUGGIE Time!” I pray this silly little interaction between my boy and me is the beginning of a lesson he will always live out, and friend, I’m praying God will use it to teach you as well.

Take Out:

Think about someone who hears you say, “I love you.” Now pray and ask God to help you put action to your words.

Finally, have you told God you love Him? Do that now and follow it up by showing Him you do!!

Dessert:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the love You pour out onto me. I’m grateful for how You showed Your love on the cross. Lord, help me receive Your love and then help me share and show that love to others. I long to love in deed and truth; I pray for help to do just that. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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